Is it cheaper to buy a phone online or in store at AT&T?
A common question that many individuals have is whether they should purchase a new smartphone from the Internet or visit an AT&T store when the time comes. This is a rather contentious issue and there are valid points that can be made for both views. Finally, it is a matter of personal choice or the phone deals or offers which are in the market at the time. In this article, I have summarized the benefits and drawbacks of each purchase method to guide you.
Buying Online
The main benefit of buying a phone from AT&T via the Internet is often a lower price. AT&T Internet often provides Internet-only specials and promotional codes, which sum up to reasonable savings on the phone and/or monthly fees. For instance, there are likely to be differences such as a smartphone that can be purchased for $50- 100 cheaper online than it costs in physical stores. Or AT&T may offer a $10 monthly discount for the first two or three bills.
Online shopping also eliminates the difficult and cumbersome process of comparing all phone models and their prices at any given time. The AT&T website displays information in categories such as by type, price, features, and many others which makes it easier to compare your choices. Furthermore, buying online is flexible in the sense that one can shop at any time since it is from the comfort of their home.
However, the online shopper experience does have some notable downsides to consider.
- In most cases, you cannot physically hold and touch the actual phone that you are planning to buy. This makes it difficult to have a feel of the size, design, and comfort and such qualities.
- Accessing service and transferring data from one device to another could prove a bit more challenging with no face-to-face interaction. While it is true that AT&T does provide online chat, videos, and phone support, its approach is less personal.
- The delivery time may take 1-4+ weeks at present depending on the stock situation in the country. This uncertainty could be annoying if you need a new phone soon.
- Returns and exchanges are often not as convenient as going to a local store and switching the phone with a representative.
Buying In Store
On the other hand, buying a new smartphone from your local AT&T store has some advantages that are not available in online shopping. Perhaps the most significant aspect is that you can touch phone models physically before making a decision on which one to purchase. Adjusting the cameras, screens, buttons position and general feel of a phone can help to understand which one is more suitable.
Store sales reps are also present to assist with any inquiries about plans, deals, or configuration of devices on the spot. Their product knowledge and account access allow them to effectively explain the options available and successfully close out the service. The process of acquiring a new phone is so convenient that in case of any technical challenges that may arise with the new phone, then all one has to do is go back to the store for some assistance.
Also, AT&T Stores may be given special limited-time promotions that are not available on the website. With new popular phones, for example, stores may offer additional offers such as gifts that are more than the online prices on the launch day like a gift card or phone accessories.
The next and final store benefit is the ability to purchase and activate the accessories on the same day which is an important factor for those who do not wish to spend time on this. However, selecting a model/color and going to the nearest store may take longer than scrolling through the internet and purchasing something. This might also make the store prices more expensive if there are no online coupon codes or promotional offers available at that time.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, both online and in-store offers provide the cheapest phone deal, but it is a game of timing and chance. Both channels will probably provide the latest gadgets and most likely, the basic prices for the devices will be the same from AT&T. In terms of cost, online shopping has the general advantage due to regular coupon codes and sales on websites. But in-store purchases can offer more customer service benefits, tactile experience, immediate satisfaction, and sometimes special first-time offer discounts.
High-risk takers or those who are willing to do their homework will make the most out of the deal. Always start by comparing all the phone specifications and the costs listed on the AT&T website first. Take time to wait for online discounts and promos during the initial release periods of models you fancy. It’s only prudent to buy that perfectly priced dress you’ve found online if the deal is too good to pass up. Otherwise, go to physical stores to see devices in the flesh later on once the rush is over. It is usually possible to get store prices equal to online prices with a little haggling as well.
Since you can shop online and still have access to helpful store associates, do not worry about being able to acquire the phone of your choice at a fair price through AT&T’s purchasing outlets. When it comes to choosing the right weight loss program for you, you must consider the options and their disadvantages and advantages. Combine the most advantageous aspects of both the digital and physical shopping environments to get the best deal on your next AT&T phone upgrade.
Upgrade to faster, more reliable AT&T Fiber Internet today! Call us at +1 844-905-5002 and get connected with speeds that keep you ahead.